At today’s official press conference in Skopje, representatives of the European Olympic Committees (EOC) and the Organizing Committee of the festival presented updates on the festival’s progress, achieved results, and the overall importance of EYOF for the North Macedonia’s sports and cultural development.
The EYOF Skopje 2025 has proven a tremendous sporting success – featuring a record number of 15 sports disciplines, more than 4,000 athletes, top-notch organization, and an electrifying sports atmosphere fueled by around 700 volunteers. The Festival kicked off in spectacular fashion, with the under-18 world record broken in pole vault and two under-18 European records (in the women’s 100m race and shooting). More records and sporting achievements are expected before the Festival closes on July 26.
These highlights were emphasized at today’s official press conference held at the “DoubleTree by Hilton” hotel in Skopje, where organizers shared updates on the Festival so far, the challenges they’ve faced, the milestones achieved, and the significance of EYOF for North Macedonia’s sporting and cultural advancement. The media received a comprehensive recap of the sporting events taking place across venues in Skopje, Kumanovo and Osijek – all immersed in youthful energy, sportsmanship and European unity. The importance of the Festival was also discussed in terms of its contribution to the European sports community and the institutional development of North Macedonia.
Speakers included Spyros Capralos, President of the European Olympic Committees (EOC); Daniel Dimevski, President of the Macedonian Olympic Committee and of the EYOF Skopje 2025 Organizing Committee; Borko Ristovski, Minister of Sport of the Republic of North Macedonia; Líney Rut Halldórsdóttir, Chair of the EOC EYOF Commission; under-18 world record holder in pole vault Alika Inkery Moser from Estonia; and Macedonian flagbearer and volleyball player Matea Popovska.
Spyros Capralos, President of the EOC, highlighted the Festival’s media visibility and its broader impact.
“The EYOF is a unique sporting Festival. For many of the athletes, it is their first experience of an international multi-sport event, and an important chance to compete on the field of play, and make friendships and connections off the field of play,” President Capralos said.
“EYOF Skopje 2025 is already capturing the attention of all of Europe – all competitions are live-streamed and the numbers are outstanding. Just yesterday, the athletics competition reached 100,000 views. This demonstrates the festival’s significance and how sport unites the continent.”
Daniel Dimevski, President of the Organizing Committee and the Macedonian Olympic Committee, emphasized the national and sporting importance of the event.
“We are proud that North Macedonia is hosting one of the most important youth sporting events in Europe. This is not just an organizational success, but also a sporting one. We already have a new national swimming record, and I believe we’ll see North Macedonia among the medal winners in the coming days. EYOF is more than sport – it’s a platform for connecting our young generation with Europe and presenting our country in the best possible light.”
He also addressed the organizational challenges and the teamwork behind the Festival’s success. “This project is the result of years of dedicated work and vision. Behind every athlete, every volunteer, every driver or journalist, there is a team working with heart and soul. Organizing a multinational sporting event of this scale is extremely complex, but we are proud that Europe sees us as a trusted partner. We will continue improving all processes and show that North Macedonia is ready for even greater challenges.”
Borko Ristovski, Minister of Sport, underlined the strategic importance of the Festival for the country and youth sports.
“As a country, we have a historic opportunity to host over 4,000 athletes and coaches – something that rarely happens and is not easy to organize. This is not just a sporting event, but an investment in the future of Macedonian sport. I’m especially pleased that our athletes have the chance to compete on home ground against the best in Europe. This is a huge opportunity for all of us – institutions, athletes, and citizens.”
Líney Rut Halldórsdóttir, Chair of the EOC’s EYOF Commission, spoke about the challenges and the importance of the Festival:
“Organizing EYOF is a complex task, and over the past two years we have invested immense effort and dedication. This Festival in Skopje is the largest we’ve ever held, and that speaks volumes about North Macedonia’s ambition and capacity. EYOF is the first step toward achieving big dreams for many young athletes.”
Macedonian volleyball player Matea Popovska shared her satisfaction as a participant in the Festival. “As an athlete, I can say the conditions are excellent – everything is organized to the highest standard, and the atmosphere is truly inspiring. These conditions allow us to fully commit and give our best. I’m grateful to the Ministry of Sport and the Minister for making sure our national teams are fully supported to perform at their best. Our goal is clear: we want to make North Macedonia proud. But we need you – the media and the public – to support us. I invite all sports fans to attend the matches where we compete as a delegation. In particular, your support today at 6pm at the Boris Trajkovski Sports Center will mean a lot to us as we face Türkiyeand aim for our first victory.”
Alika Inkery Moser from Estonia, the first gold medalist of the Festival who set a new under-18 world record in pole vault (4.52 meters) on the first competition day, shared her excitement. “It is a great honor and pleasure to achieve my biggest success so far and set a new world record in my discipline right here at EYOF Skopje 2025. I will remember this Festival forever – not just for the medal, but for the amazing atmosphere and positive energy.”At the press conference, the public and media were invited to continue following the Festival, which runs until Saturday and features competitions in 15 sports disciplines, along with a cultural program, fan zones, mascot Shiny activities, and the presence of hundreds of volunteers who drive the entire organization.
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